Top 10 World Rugby Logos Defined

Top 10 World Rugby Logos Defined

Ever wondered how some of the world’s best rugby teams come up with their logos? We take a look at World Rugby’s top 10 international rugby teams and the meanings behind their unique logos. Not all of them are the national emblems; some have some unique stories to tell that inspire, unite and mobilise rugby fans to stadiums in support of their teams.

New Zealand – the silver fern. A symbol of an iconic plant in Māori legend. The underside of the fern’s fronds are silver and reflect in the moonlight; helping Māori warriors and hunters to find their way home by following the illuminated path provided by the fern.

England – the red rose. Emanating from the beginnings of the game, the founder of the iconic Rugby School, Lawrence Sheriff, was presented with a coat of arms by Elizabeth I and was allowed to use the symbol of English Monarchy, a red rose, on the school’s crest. The red rose has followed English Rugby ever since.

Ireland – the shamrock. As the symbol of the patron saint, St Patrick, the shamrock (clover) represents the Christian holy trinity and Ireland itself. Three shamocks, representing both Northern Ireland and The Republic of Ireland, show the unity between players from Leinster, Muster, Connacht and ulster. Even the green colour originates for the stem of the shamrock.

Australia – the wallaby. Previously the Australian coat of arms was used; however, the wallaby was adopted fairly recently as a distinguishable symbol of the team.

South Africa – the springbok. After Apartheid, the South African government set to name all sporting teams “the Proteas”; however, former president Nelson Mandela argued that the team should keep it’s the national animal for its name as a gesture of kindness to rugby supporters.

Scotland – the thistle. As legend has it, when the Norse Army invaded Scotland, they chose to attack in the darkness. When one of the barefooted soldiers trampled on a thistle, it gave the army’s position away and gave natives the upper hand.

Wales – the Prince of Wales feathers. An image of three white ostrich feathers and a golden crown with the German ‘Ich Dien’ meaning ‘I serve’. A symbol linked to the royal warrior, Edward (the black prince), known for his bravery and fearlessness in battle.

France – the rooster. A symbol based on shared representation of the French dating back to the symbol on ancient coins which were used by the tribes of Gaul.

Argentina – the jaguar. Simply the national animal of Argentina.

Fiji – the palm tree. A symbol of the island and its agricultural bounty; the palm tree is a symbol on the original coat of arms.